The following page contains a list of frequently asked questions on Lap-BandŽ adjustments that provide general information about bariatric surgery and lifestyle changes that accompany it. If you have specific questions about the LAP BANDŽ surgery or gastric bypass surgery, please contact Texas Surgery Associates. Dr. Michel Stephan and staff will be happy to discuss what you can expect before, during, and after surgery.

FREQUENTLYASKED QUESTIONSON THE LAP-BANDŽ SYSTEM

Everyone requires a different restriction level and adjustment schedule for optimal results. There are several indicators that
may alert you to schedule an appointment. Some of these include:

wNo weight loss for more
than 3 weeks

wIncreased appetite

wFeeling hungry less that 4 hours after
eating a meal

wAbility to eat more food during a meal than ususal

wIncreased
snacking

wAbility to eat foods that you were unable to eat before (i.e. breads, fibrous vegetables)

If
you are several years post-op, you may still require adjustments. Long-term follow-up is the key to success.

Three small meals a day should satisfy you while maintaining a target weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week. The Lap-BandŽ helps
you eat less by restricting your stomach capacity and increasing the time it takes to digest food. If you choose your food wisely
and chew it properly, you should not feel hungry or deprived.

Yes, you can have too much saline in your band. Tighter is not always better! Indicators that you may be over adjusted
include:

w Difficulty swallowing food or saliva

w Regurgitation

w Waking up at night coughing or vomiting

w Frequent reflux / heartburn

w Chest heaviness

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact Dr. Stephan immediately at (972) 226-0405

Your esophagus muscle tightens when not used overnight. It must work to push the food down through the band and needs some time
to "warm up" in the morning. This may also result from going to bed with full stomach.

Adding saline from your Lap-BandŽ System is necessary for continued success. This unique feature provides the right level
of restriction for your individual needs.